Testimonials

Pat and I can’t begin to tell you how much we enjoyed our class and to thank you for everything. I have such good feelings about the success of your efforts. One enormous attribute is the sincerity and commitment you have for and toward your clients. There is no price you can place on that and combined with the knowledge and confidence you have, well that’s a winner and certainly will be viewed as such by all those you train. There is no better advertisement than word of mouth and believe me; Pat and I are spreading the word. In addition the friendships that are formed as a result of your obedience and socialization classes are just one more priceless out come of the training process. We are better for all your efforts and certainly our boy Traveler is. Mike, you had a hard act to follow in Dick Russell, you met the challenge and far exceeded it and have not missed a beat and I know Dick would be extremely proud and he certainly placed his trust in the right folks. We look forward to further training and fellowship with you all.

Thanks so very much."

— Tommie, Pat & Traveler O'Donoghue

I have just completed the class with my dog Molly, an 80 pound “Labra-derrier”, and I am starting my other dog Champ, in the next session. I can not say enough good things about what this has meant to me and my fur-children. They are both rescue dogs, I have had for 6 years. Until this year, I had a big fenced backyard for them to play in. We are now living in a townhouse, with no yard. Taking them on walks was an ordeal that I began to fear I could not physically handle. They pulled me over hill and dale, and across parking lots. We were all completely out of control.

I began emailing Mike and immediately began to feel hopeful. He was always positive and encouraging, and I enrolled Molly. From the FIRST NIGHT of classes, Mike worked with us and both Molly and I learned a lot. I learned that I had as much, if not more to learn, than my dog. She was picking up on my anxiety before our walks even started, and would be so out of control by the time we got outside, it was scary. Molly absolutely adores Mike and would turn inside-out until he would come over and love on her, all the while requiring her to sit and stay. We are now taking really great walks, and I am confident we can all live happily in our new home.

Mike is an incredible trainer with a big heart; who really loves dogs, loves training dogs (and people ☺) and values the proven effective fundamentals created by Dick Russell. He will work individually with anyone who needs help or is facing unique challenges.

If you need a trainer, this is your guy.”

— Debbie Luck

A good novice obedience course isn't just about skills, but it also helps strengthen the trust bond between dog and guardian, and it helps develop a well-socialized, confident dog. This course does that magnificently.

Over nearly two decades, I've trained several German Shepherd Dogs and one gentle little Doberman, and I've been through three different styles of obedience class with different dogs—I like this course the best, and I think the dogs do too. It made a world of difference in helping to rehabilitate the shy, sweet rescued German Shepherd puppy I currently have.

Mike Davis runs the best novice-level obedience class I've ever seen. His class is kinder and gentler than the AKC-style I participated in at an obedience club, and it's more rigorous than the big-box store-based classes I've observed. It strikes just the right balance.

The class has all the building blocks to set up a very strong bond between dogs and their guardians, which makes it a truly excellent choice. It works for large and small dogs, young and old. Although I have a large-breed dog, I noticed that he takes extra time helping owners with toy breeds customize the program to the special needs of the tiniest dogs, so that their diminutive stature is taken into account in the training.

Mike has a patient, kind energy to him when he is working with dogs. He takes time to see each dog as an individual with a unique personality and needs. He cares deeply about the dogs, and he wants them (and their owners) to succeed together. He works to help owners better understand their dogs. He has infinite patience for "badly behaved" dogs in class and helps them work through any issues they have with a generous, caring spirit, instead of frustration. Unlike some classes I've seen that will kick out "problem dogs " (i.e., the dogs who most need to be there), Mike will devote more energy to help them transition into "good dogs," even if it means having them repeat the class a few times.

He's also very responsive by email and welcomes emailed questions from class participants.

The class is effective because it proceeds in "baby steps" — mastering small skills, a little at a time, building on them gradually, then over several weeks leading to bigger, more complex skills. Dogs (and people!) are set up to succeed through a well-designed series of exercises.

I also can't say enough good things about the value of participating in his weekly dog socialization field on Saturday mornings. It is a key part of rehabilitating my shy pup. It's magnificent to watch her courage and confidence blossoming from week to week there.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!”

— Maggie Thomas

We thank you for your time and knowledge so much that words can’t express. I have fallen in love with Anai in the past 6 weeks because you made both of us better.“

— Michelle Quaid

As first time dog owners, we knew our puppy, Nico, wasn’t the only one who needed training. We couldn’t be happier with our experience in Mike’s class. It was amazing to see what our puppy was capable of, and she had a blast doing ‘Paper Plate Recalls’ while also learning basic obedience commands. We began taking Nico to socialization sessions as soon as we could, which we know has played a huge role in her sweet, friendly temperament with other dogs and people. We recommend Mike’s class and large field socialization to anyone with a dog!”

— Jenny & Peter Browne

Dick Russell was training Michael when our German Shepherd was attending Dick's obedience class. Since then, Michael has been a tremendous help. Michael is always willing to go above and beyond to make sure you and your family are successful with the training. He will meet with you at your convenience to answer any questions you may have with your pets. He takes pride in his work and is a very compassionate trainer. Bo, our German Shepherd, loves going to socialization where he is able to interact with dogs of all sizes and people. Thanks to Michael, people always tell us that Bo is a well mannered dog. We highly recommend Michael to help you train your dog."

— Derek, Amy & Bo Denham

You guys are awesome! I think it's wonderful that you have continued Dick's teachings! We really enjoyed your class! Lucky and Cole had a great time! Thanks again!"

— Katie Bradburn Day

Ella Sheaux (Momma too) really enjoyed her time with Fleur de Lead! Thank you both so much for a great eight weeks! We both really learned a lot during this course. I would highly recommend this course for anyone looking to become a better pack leader ☺"

— Jennifer W.

A few months ago I had the good fortune to meet Mike and Maria Davis of Fleur de Lead Dog Training. After finding out Mike’s philosophy of dog training, I decided to begin obedience with our dog, “Sparky”. During the weeks that followed Mike instilled in me the confidence I needed to be an effective leader and trainer. It was during this time that I realized our dog’s potential for learning and responding in a consistent, favorable manner.

Our dog has always been more attached to my husband but my bond with him grew strong during training and it has continued to flourish. I always loved our dog but now I adore him.

Mike is a genuine dog lover and a highly skilled and talented trainer and teacher. He has a way of making every dog and dog owner in the class feel special.

Mike and I thoroughly enjoyed your class. Tebow might not have gotten the chance he has if not for your class and you educating us! Thank you for your time and commitment.

— Sharon & Mike Miller

Mike and his wife definitely know what they're doing!! Their methods are proven daily! I definitely recommend participating in the socialization classes. My Sweetie has pretty bad anxiety towards other dogs and at a time I was beginning to think nothing was able to help her, Mike showed me the light at the end of the tunnel! Thank y'all soooo much!!! Your patience and expertise have already given me hope that I didn't have before, even after just one class!!

— Beth W.

Michael is the ONLY dog trainer that I will recommend any dog owner to. Very successful class lead by a very knowledgeable and compassionate trainer.

“Whatever it takes for the life of your dog”

When you and your dog enroll in my obedience class, I make a lifetime commitment to your desire that they become an enjoyable pet. Within the confines of the class setting, I will do whatever it takes, for as long as it takes, to achieve this, and it will never cost you another cent.